Moses Gitonga’s name has been a household name in Nakuru County.
From defending human rights to fighting for justice in society.
However, the former Military man has now taken another dimension and now focusing on farming for economic empowerment.
Gitonga who resides in Langalanga area of Murindat Ward in Gilgil Subcounty seems to have realized the power that Agriculture has in the economy of this nation.
He is currently engaging in yellow maize farming for silage on contract.
“We do yellow maize farming for silage on contract. 5 acres, 10 20 acres. Just call 0724746800,” he says.
Gitonga commonly referred to as ‘Mtetezi’ says the maize are tolerant to drought.
According to him, this is ideal especially with the unpredictable rain patterns.
He is currently in talks with Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization(KALRO) to be purchasing the seeds from the same.
It should be noted that the yellow composite maize from Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) tolerates high temperatures up to 30 degrees Celsius typical to areas with minimal rains.
Silage is prepared by slicing green maize stalks into pieces of about five centimeters.
The chopped maize stalks is laced with molasses before packaging into air tight bags for storage.
Gitonga says he has been able to do the farming through loans from Banking institutions.
He has also been engaging in beans farming for two years, though he is quick to point out for upto 5 months, beans farming is hectic as you spend most of the time taking care before you can reap from the same.
Mwezi moja or kibuu in Kikuyu language with Tech name GLP 1127.
Gitonga notes that it takes 90 days to mature, adding that it is a high breeder and good for food as it has no gas.